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Friday, June 10, 2005

Researchers Say Nanotubes Boost Semiconductor Speeds

Scientists at UC Irvine said this week that they have created the world's fastest method for transmitting information in cell phones and computers. The scientists from the Henry Samueli School of Engineering said that they have demonstrated transmitting information at 10 GHz using new, carbon nanotube technology. Carbon nanotube technology removes the speed limitations that currently exist in copper and aluminum wiring. The school said that the breakthrough could lead to faster and more efficient computers, and improved wireless network and cellular phone systems. Carbon nanotubes use graphite sheets wrapped into cylinders to transmit signals, replacing copper trace wiring used to interconnect chips. The researchers, led by Peter Burke, assistant professor of engineering and computer science, are now working on developing manufacturing techniques for the carbon nanotubes.